jealousy

[ jel-uh-see ]

noun

, plural jeal·ous·ies

1. jealous resentment against a rival, a person enjoying success or advantage, etc., or against another's success or advantage itself.
2. mental uneasiness from suspicion or fear of rivalry, unfaithfulness, etc., as in love or aims.
3. vigilance in maintaining or guarding something.
4. a jealous feeling, disposition, state, or mood.

jealousy

/ ˈdʒɛləsɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being jealous

Confusables Note

See envy.

Word History and Origins

Origin of jealousy¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English gelusie, gelosie, from Old French gelosie, jalousie, equivalent to gelos “jealous” + -ie noun suffix; jealous, -y ³

Synonym Study

See envy.

Example Sentences

"Also, the east/west coast beef was mainly ignited by jealousy. It was an ashtray fire fanned into a big deal by media outlets that led to Biggie and Tupac getting killed."

From BBC

He said he could not reveal his source to JC editors and described a "witch-hunt against me caused by jealousy".

From BBC

Mr Justice Hilliard, who previously lifted restrictions to allow the identity of MacPhail to be reported, said the "vicious and brutal" attack was motivated by "resentment and jealousy".

From BBC

The prosecutor said MacPhail had been intent on seeing Holly and messages he had sent demonstrated his "jealousy" and "unhappiness with how he felt he had been treated".

From BBC

Torres has no jealousy toward O’Dell early rising.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• grudge
• resentment